Among many things, I am a Storyteller at heart. Everything that I create has a story behind it. Regardless if it is a piece of hand-crafted jewelry, a crochet product, or, as in this case, mixed media art. To me, the story behind the art, regardless of the method you use, is what gives it the soul.

Mixed Media Storytelling:

In the case of my art, this mixed media storytelling usually starts with something I just can’t get out of my head. It takes me over, so to speak. Regardless of which of my mediums I reach for, or what I had planned to create, the thoughts and stories in my mind will express themselves on canvas or art paper.

I use a visual rather than verbal expression to share the story that is forming. Since I mix my media frequently, it becomes part of my mixed media storytelling.

Floating Love—this original abstract watercolor and gold metallic mini-art (signed by me and available for sale here)—is the first of four pieces exploring the many layers of love and relationships

To me, this particular art piece represents the fluidity of love. The different relationships we hold can display themselves in different types of love. Some can feel free and fluid, while other types can feel structured and almost rigid in their form.

The same is the case with the love we extend to those around us. I have bordered each with a gold tone, so show that no matter which type of love we experience, it is precious indeed. I chose soft pink to evoke the tenderness of a heart engaged in love.

The watercolor wash of gray and mint green (background) represents the way many of us feel about the mundane everyday life. It is love that brings color and shapes with it.

The best part of mixed media storytelling to me:

The best part of mixed media storytelling, or anytype of artform storytelling, is that it transcends the spoken word. We can speak completely different languages, but via the visual aspects of art, we can communicate. The soul of the work, the story, translates into every language with ease.

Art is meant to be felt.

Just like traditional or verbal storytelling, art and the story, or the thought it conveys, is not dead. Art is meant to be felt by both the Artist and the Viewer. It is alive and is supposed to touch something in your soul.

It is also interpretive. I gave you the symbolic meaning and the story I was telling you from my point of view. You, however, may see a completely different story unfold. If it evokes a feeling or a visceral response in you, then I, as the artist, have achieved my goal.

My painting has achieved its purpose. Mixed media storytelling is a method of delivering an interconnection between the artist and the beholder.

When I can’t find the words to express my feelings…

Sometimes putting your feelings into words can feel taunting. About 20 years ago, I realized that I could let my art do the talking for me. Back then, the wrong phrase or word could end up causing an already difficult situation to get worse. Still, getting what I felt deep inside needed to be expressed for my mental health.

I gathered my various art supplies and began letting those feelings flow from my hands to the canvas. My chest felt lighter. It was healing to me. That is when I began my journey with mixed media storytelling.

Beyond the brush:

If you go and visit my store, you’ll notice that I not only tell stories with art, but it carries into my hand-made jewelry, and even some of my crochet treasures as well. I put my heart and my soul into everything I create. That is the part of me that is the storyteller and spiritual healer.

As always, thank you for stopping by and reading my posts. I appreciate you! Don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list. (see sidebar). If you feel led to do so, feel free to share it with your friends or on social media.

Until next time. May you be blessed!

Regina L.